Wedding Caterer for the Reception

The food at your wedding reception will probably be your largest expense. So you’ll want to get the best caterer for your money. If the food at you wedding is good, the guests won’t be able to stop talking about it. Here are some questions to ask before you sign on the dotted line.

The first suggestion is to start on getting referrals from your friends, family or coworkers for suggestions on which caters they have worked with. One can also ask the photographer or the florist for any caterers they may know. There are also places like the caterers association; you can look them up on the Internet.

Once you've found a few who seem like they might work, make an appointment, arranging to have an interview to ask the following questions. That way, you'll know you're working with a professional, you'll avoid ugly surprises, and your guests’ taste buds will be happy.

Questions to Ask the Caterer

What will the cost of per person be?

What do you suggest as menu items?

Do you specialize in any particular style of food?

Could we add a special ethic dish to the menu?

Are you licensed? (met health department standards)

Do you have a liquor license?

What would be the cost per person for a buffet compare to that of a sit-down dinner?

What does the cost per person cover, or are the charges such as staff, rentals, and linens included?

What service costs will be additional?

Will the set-up and clean up be included?

How much will the overtime be if the reception runs long?

Is the gratuity included?

Do you provide the glasses, plates, silverware, tables, chairs, serving pieces, and decorative flowers for trays?

What color and style of linens, glasses, plates, and accessories are available?

Could you provide a wedding cake, and possibly a groom’s cake?

If we provide them, do you charge a cake cutting and serving fee?

If we want to provide our own liquor, do you charge a corkage fee?

Can we see a copy of your standard contract?

What deposit do you require to hold the date, and when will the rest of the money be due?

Could we see pictures of previous events, and speak to former clients for referrals?